David Morrissey is among a host of other celebrities who have paid tribute to British actor Warren Clarke following the news he'd passed away in his sleep earlier today (12.11.14)

The 50-year-old actor - who starred alongside Clarke in 2009 TV Movie 'Red Riding' - has taken to Twitter to pay tribute to the 'Dalziel and Pascoe' star after it was confirmed he passed away earlier today (12.11.14) following a "short illness".

David wrote: "So sad to hear about the death of Warren Clarke. He was a very special man/a great actor. We had wonderful times together on Red Riding. RIP (sic)."

A number of other celebrities have also taken to social media to pay their respects after the actor's agent confirmed he had "died peacefully in his sleep" aged 67.

Actor and director Richard E. Grant wrote on Twitter: "Shocked to hear that Warren Clarke has died. Worked with twice and shared a holiday in the Caribbean.Hilarious and irreverent. (sic)"

'Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps' actor Will Mellor also spoke of his sadness at hearing the news, saying: "RIP my good friend Warren Clarke!! So sad to here the news!! I can't believe it. Great man!! (sic)"

Warren - who was also known for his roles in 'A Clockwork Orange' and 'Down to Earth' - was a lifelong fan of Manchester City Football Club.

Writing on their official Twitter page, they said: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Warren Clarke following sad news of the actor and mcfc fan's passing."

A statement released on behalf of his agent earlier today (12.11.14) reads: "The actor Warren Clarke died peacefully in his sleep on 12 November 2014, after a short illness.

"He will be greatly missed by his family and loved ones. At this time we ask that you respect their privacy in this time of grief."